Sometimes China’s bustling capital gives you moments of tranquility, revealing two sides of this ancient culture. The morning commute to your internship is a flood of trains, buses, and bicycles. But just beyond a gated entryway to Jingshan Park, a group of women are practicing Tai Chi in the shade of a willow tree. While visiting the Great Wall as part of MyEducation, you feel as if you are part of a parade of international tourists. But walk a bit further up the ancient stone steps, and you will be alone, face-to-face with the stunning mountains that protected China from invaders for centuries. Even a menu at a Chinese restaurant can seem daunting at first. Who knew there were so many ways to prepare noodles? But you have been studying Mandarin, and when you speak a few new vocabulary words with the waitress, she is so flattered to hear you speak her language that she points out all of her favorite dishes. These moments of connection and understanding, combined with the thrills of a modern metropolis, make living and studying in Beijing an unrivaled study abroad experience.

The CAPA Beijing Program offers you the opportunity to begin learning Mandarin Chinese, or to advance your existing Mandarin language skills rapidly, in an intensive program, and to expand important historical and current understanding of this fast developing country so crucial to the Western world through courses taught in English. The courses examine the development and role of Beijing as an emerging global city and the reform, current state, and future prospects for the Chinese economy in a cutting edge curriculum where you might join local Chinese university students in class. The area studies focus includes a Mandarin course for beginners at a less intensive pace, supported by access to a language partner.

In both options a challenging part-time internship placement can be added, supported by CAPA's Learning Through Internships seminar. Internships in a host of disciplines are open to you at all levels of language ability and include businesses, nonprofits, and nongovernmental organizations. This combination is strongly recommended for business, economics, and other students looking to enhance their marketability by becoming "China smart".

You may enroll for a seventeen-week semester or an eight-week summer program. Both options include housing at Capital Normal University, a weekly meal stipend, a transportation pass for the metro and buses, entrances to the Forbidden City and the Summer Palace, a daytrip to the Great Wall, a 4-day excursion to Shanghai (semesters only), and CAPA's MyEducation Program. If you are studying at the intermediate Mandarin level or above, you can also live in a homestay for an additional fee.

Beijing is well equipped with an extensive public transit system, including multiple metro lines and a variety of buses. The system utilizes a travel card that stores money; as you enter the metro or board a bus the necessary funds will be debited from the card. As part of your program, you will receive a card pre-loaded with the funds to cover 14 one-way journeys per week. Should you wish to travel more often, it is very economical to add additional funds to the card yourself. Information on how to do this will be provided at your orientation.

CAPA students reside in an international student residence located on the Capital Normal University campus or in a homestay with a local Chinese family (for those students with intermediate Mandarin or above). Each room at CNU hosts 2 students and has an en-suite bathroom. The rooms also have a television, storage space, and wireless Internet. The residence has a dining hall, restaurant and cafe, fitness center, bookstore, and ATM. The reception desk is staffed around the clock, and laundry facilities are located on every floor.

If you have intermediate Mandarin or above you can also opt to live in a homestay with a Chinese family. Homestays are within commuting distance of CNU. You will live in a single room and will be provided breakfast and dinner each day in lieu of a meal stipend.

Bear in mind that the accommodation may not be as spacious as what you are accustomed to in the U.S., and storage space will be limited. Please pack appropriately. We will provide specific information about your housing approximately two weeks prior to departure.

You will share the space with one to three other students. Your roommates will be other students on the CAPA Beijing program, another international student or a CNU student. If you live in a homestay you will have your own room.

While the student residences do have landlines, you will need to use a calling card to make local and international calls. Internet cafes often provide good international calling rates, and students have also begun using Internet resources such as Skype to place international calls for a small fee or no charge at all. We will provide information about cell phone rental in your pre-departure pack or you may choose to rent or buy one once you arrive. Incoming calls on most mobile phones are free in China, but be aware of roaming charges and rates on outgoing calls - these costs can build up quickly!

Your residence has laundry facilities throughout the building. Be prepared to pay for your laundry fees and budget accordingly. If you are in a homestay, you can have two loads of laundry washed each week.

We suggest that you have mail and packages sent directly to the CAPA center with your name and school name clearly listed. The address is in your pre-departure packet. Senders must assume all associated shipping charges, including customs fees. Failure to do so could delay or cancel delivery, and/or result in a large customs bill for you!

No guests are allowed in CAPA housing. The staff will happily provide a list of inexpensive options for friends or family. If you live in a homestay, note that most host families prefer that you not have guests at any time. Please be considerate of your family and arrange to visit with friends in other locations. For visits by friends and family, you can utilize the services of STA travel, which can help find affordable lodging close to CNU or your own housing. For information call STA at (800) 224-0371 or visit www.statravel.com.

Beijing has a variable climate. Summer temperatures can reach over 90 degrees with thunderstorms while winter temperatures stay below freezing. The temperatures in fall and spring are much more moderate and dry. It can rain anytime throughout the year, so be sure to pack or buy an umbrella.

A good pair of walking shoes is essential. Remember that you will most likely walk more than you do at home. A heavy jacket will be necessary for the winter months, while a lighter waterproof jacket is useful throughout the year. Remember that you may want to buy clothes in China, so don't over-pack!

Spending habits vary greatly from student to student. The frequency with which you travel, eat in restaurants, and go out in the evenings will determine your expenditures. To be cautious, we generally recommend that students bring at least $80 per week, and this excludes free travel time outside Beijing and expensive gifts. While Beijing is not as expensive as other cities in the world, prices are rising. In the CAPA student handbook, you will find a “Do – It – Yourself” budget. Fill it in prior to departing (and bring it with you!). After the first week and a half, check your actual spending against the budget to help you determine how to budget accordingly for the program’s duration.

Diversify, diversify, diversify. You’ll find that contemporary ATM cards (with a credit option) will cover almost everything. But remember: should your wallet get lost or stolen, you have few options until you replace the card, so we recommend bringing a modest amount in traveler’s checks (approximately $150). Set this aside for emergencies when you arrive. You’ll need a photo ID to cash traveler’s checks at the bank; generally you cannot cash them in shops and restaurants. If you bring your ATM card overseas, talk to a bank representative to ensure your card has international capabilities and to learn any other idiosyncrasies. If your PIN is longer than 4 digits, ask your bank representative what PIN you will use because many Chinese ATMs operate only on a four-digit PIN system. Almost all ATMs will add a fee for international transactions. And consider using a credit card with a low credit line before going abroad; to better track your spending, we recommend using it in case of an emergency ONLY. Because many airports do not offer the best exchange rate, you could acquire Chinese Renminbi (500 – 700 RMB) from your local bank before leaving; this might come in handy for a taxi to the CAPA center.

Beijing has excellent doctors and medical facilities. You are automatically covered by CAPA's World Student Insurance policy up to $100,000 per medical claim. Be sure to keep your brochure with you for information on the full coverage. If you visit a doctor or hospital, you are required to pay up front. You will then be reimbursed up to $100,000 by the World Student Insurance policy, provided that you produce the receipts associated with your medical services and submit your claim within 30 days of returning to the US. For minor symptoms, it may be wiser to solicit healthcare advice from a local pharmacist first. This is common practice, and you’ll find it quicker and more efficient. The CAPA staff can give you the details of English-speaking doctors and pharmacists.

If you take prescription medication, you should bring enough for your stay. Remember to keep any medication in its original packaging in your carry-on luggage. We recommend that you get a doctor’s note explaining the medication, as well as the drug’s generic name. Keep this information handy if you have any issues with your prescription or need to obtain more; it can be difficult to ship medications overseas. If you are currently in counseling, we strongly recommend you continue this while abroad. You may want to set up weekly phone calls with your counselor in the US or CAPA can provide a list of local counselors and psychologists; your own psychologist may have local connections as well.

Beijing is an international destination with foods and flavors from all over the globe. As part of your program, you will receive a meal stipend each week of the program that you can use in the dining hall and other restaurants within your residence. However, we encourage you to also explore Beijing’s bustling restaurant scene and food markets. Breakfast generally consists of dim sum, though western options and fruit will be available at the residence. Lunch and dinner features a lot of rice and noodle dishes and Peking duck is the city’s most famous dish. It is possible to try cuisine from across China while in Beijing, and each showcases a variety ingredients (and levels of spiciness).

Speak with your program coordinator for specific holiday dates such as semester breaks or long weekends. Because these vacation dates are subject to change, we suggest that you not make any lengthy travel arrangements until you arrive. The CAPA Beijing staff can assist with travel advice and there is a travel agency conveniently located within the residence. Chinese train and bus systems are extensive, and discount flight carriers have also grown in popularity. Although these flights’ timetables are not always reliable—and have rigid luggage weight limitations—they are very affordable.

All U.S. citizens need a visa to enter China. CAPA will issue you a letter to submit with your application to the Chinese consulate to obtain a student visa. It is the responsibility of each student to obtain a visa before entering China. Please click here to read more about student visas.

Students should be aware that it is their own responsibility to obtain all passports, visas and required travel documents in order to enter each of the countries on their itinerary. If students are unable to obtain the necessary travel documents, or do not have them with them at the time of travel, they will not be entitled to a refund as described in the agreement. Although CAPA does advise in broad terms for the visa requirement/process for US citizens, we cannot stipulate all requirements as they might vary based on country of citizenship, or current legal standing. Students are responsible, in these cases, to research any additional requirements to which they might be held. Students should be aware that in some locations, certain passport holders could automatically be denied entry due to lack of diplomatic relationships, or other similar circumstances. Completing this research before committing to the program is strongly advised, as participation is then at one’s own risk.

The US government has created a very useful website for students studying abroad, with information on obtaining travel documents, staying healthy, knowing what to do in an emergency, safety tips, finding the nearest embassy, how to vote while overseas, and more. Visit their website at: http://studentsabroad.state.gov/.

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

A message from Colin Speakman, Director of China Programs

There has never been a more important time to learn about China, and the CAPA Beijing Program has been designed to give you a very personal and exciting opportunity to understand just why.

The world is facing many challenges including economic difficulties across the planet. Conversely, China has achieved a remarkable 30+ years of near double digit growth since reform and opening-up to the West in 1978. This year the Chinese economy is expected to grow by at least 8% and may well contribute to over half of world growth. Beijing is the seat of power for the world’s fastest growing economy and has become one of the most influential political capitals of the world. Students studying with CAPA in Beijing are able to learn first-hand about China's growth through the Chinese Economic Development: 1978 Onwards course offered every semester and summer.

A recent survey of citizens in China and the U.S. showed that 60% of Chinese believe that their country will become the leading global power in the future. Notably 42% of U.S. citizens also think the same about China! President Obama has said that “the U.S.’s relationship with China is the most important of the 21st Century,” and his administration has established a goal to see 100,000 Americans studying in China over the next four years.

China and its global importance are not easy to fully grasp. Its production and exportation of many of the world’s goods, rapidly expanding economy, growing consumption of natural resources, and entanglements with the global financial system create a complex love-hate relationship that western media loves to sensationalize. To understand China and truly appreciate this importance, it is necessary to see it, breathe it and live it!

The CAPA Beijing Program does not require you to have prior knowledge of Mandarin as many of our courses are in English and designed for students wishing to study China through relevant courses. We do offer all levels of Chinese language for students who are interested in pursuing Mandarin as a much sought after future skill.

CAPA’s specialized course on Beijing as a Global City is uniquely designed to help you explore and analyze Beijing as a global power. This is achieved by getting you out of the classroom and into the city to understand how Beijing fits into the global scene. One of the other ways CAPA helps you engage with the local culture is through our innovative MyEducation initiative. Students get a calendar of events that they can choose how they want to learn about Beijing and China. This is done in many ways including guest lectures on relevant topics, guided excursions, and opportunities to engage with the local culture throughout Beijing. In addition, the program includes an extended excursion to Shanghai as a way of exploring another global city in China!

The importance of understanding China as a boost to your career cannot be overstated. Its importance on the global scene is only going to increase. CAPA’s internship program in Beijing allows you to add a cultural and professional development dimension to your study of China. The internship can be done in either English or Mandarin, or both. For a more detailed look at how China’s relationship with the West has developed, see my recent article in the China English national newspaper China Daily – and look for more each month.

The CAPA Beijing team is looking forward to welcoming you to China and giving you what could be a truly life-changing experience. An opportunity like this does not come along that often, and we hope you will choose to be part of it.

See you soon!

Colin Speakman

Director of China ProgramsCAPA International Education

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

The CAPA Beijing Program is housed within the Haidian District at Capital Normal University (CNU). Students from around the world come to CNU to study, and CAPA students will have the chance to interact with many different student groups during their time abroad.

Students will study at Capital Normal University. The accommodation tower functions as a small community complete with dining hall, restaurants, cafe, book store, convenience store, ATM, gym, and swimming pool. The tower has a reception desk that is staffed around the clock. Rooms are configured as doubles with twin beds, a kettle and small refrigerator, en suite bathrooms, and Internet connection. Laundry rooms at modest costs and kitchens are available separately on every floor.

The classrooms and staff offices are connected to the accommodation tower. Staff will be on hand to answer any questions and to provide 24-hour emergency support.

Students with intermediate Mandarin skills can also choose to live in a homestay with a Chinese family. Homestays are a fantastic way to engage culturally with Chinese people and improve language skills.

From CAPA, it is a short bus ride or 20- to 30-minute walk to the Beijing Zoo. The nearest metro station, Huayuanqiao, can be reached by a 5 minute walk from campus.Once on the metro it is easy to reach Beihai Park, Houhai and the Central Business District directly, and with transfers to connecting lines, the Forbidden City, Tiananmen Square, Wangfujing, the Summer Palace and the Temple of Heaven.

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

The CAPA Beijing Program offers a comprehensive learning abroad experience. As China emerges as a powerful economic force, its stature is too significant to be ignored. The combination of an internship with intensive language training and relevant contextual courses creates an invaluable experience for students. CAPA’s courses and internships offer students the opportunity to learn and practice Mandarin, opening the door not only to the fascinating and rewarding world of Chinese culture and society, but also to enhanced career opportunities. CAPA offers a wide range of internships to suit different fields and majors: internships are available to all students, both non-Chinese speakers and students with advanced knowledge of Mandarin.

No matter your major, CAPA has the courses and internships to keep you on track while studying in Beijing.

Chinese Language

Anthropology

International Relations

Business

Education

Economics

Social Sciences

Geography

History

Marketing

Sociology

Linguistics

Language Courses All CAPA students will take a placement exam to determine their level of Chinese. Each Chinese level integrates sections on listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Students on the fall and spring semester program may choose an intensive language course for 9 credits or a standard language course for 3 credits.

Academic and Internship Credits All CAPA students receive full credit for courses and internships completed. The intensive semester language courses earn 9 semester credits. All other language courses, the contextual courses taught in English, and Learning through Internships all earn 3 semester credits. Credits are issued through the State University of New York at Oswego.

This course integrates the student’s Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing skills and expands the student’s vocabulary to improve the ability of analyzing words and using words. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course enables students to use Chinese skillfully, flexibly and accurately through listening, speaking, reading and writing and enhancement of integrated skills. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course enables students to understand and appreciate the rich linguistic phenomenon at higher levels through listening, speaking, reading and writing and similar kinds of integrated skills training. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course will trace the city’s transformation from its imperial past to the thriving urban metropolis and commercial centre it is today. Course themes will include: the representation of imperial power and its urban display; the modernization of the city and the legacy of the Olympics; the impact of migration on the city’s labor force and social dynamics. Students will gain insights into the ways in which globalization has affected the city and its inhabitants by analyzing the changing nature of Beijing’s relationship with the rest of the world, the place of Beijing and China in the global environment and the impact of trans-national organizations. The course also aims to help students contextualize their travels and encounters in the city, and to develop informed interpretations of their experience, as well as enhancing their understanding of Chinese history, culture and society with a specific focus on the city of Beijing.

This three credit course explores China’s role in foreign relations with major powers since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 with a particular emphasis on China-US relations and contemporary international relations in the East Asia Region. The course starts with an introduction to China’s international relations, and how international relations theory can explain China’s role in world affairs. The China-US relationship will be examined in terms of politics, economics and security. China’s historic and current roles in the East Asian region will be explored relating to changing economic power and domestic pressure, and political and security aspects. China’s growing role in international and regional economic and political groupings is reviewed alongside the question of China’s emergence as an international superpower.

This three credit course examines the history and social context of the main forms of visual art in China, and combines learning about aesthetics and techniques with an understanding of the wider socio-political connections. The course provides an overview of timelines, techniques, materials and geographical features of importance throughout the history of Chinese art and culture. It examines rituals governing life and death, the influence of religion and philosophy and the impact of Buddhism, the establishment of major artistic conventions, and the relevance of foreign trade and the rise of internationally important ceramic types.

This three credit course examines how China’ s economy has sustained rapid growth since 1978 when it embarked on economic reforms and opening up policies initiated by Mr. Deng Xiao‐ping As a result of its size, dynamic growth, and continuing reform policies, China has achieved the status of 2nd largest economy in the world. The course examines the transition from planned to predominantly market economy in many sectors, looking at reforms, opening up and the involvement of Foreign Direct Investment and Joint-Venture cooperation with Western multi-nationals.

This three credit course is designed to give students a comprehensive overview of Chinese Philosophy as well as Religion in China. Humanism, which characterises Chinese philosophy, is examined from its cosmological routes. Confucianism and Taoism are examined as the dominant thought in China’s philosophical tradition. Buddhism’s development emerges from foreign influences and its impact is discussed. The Neo-Confucian scholars ensured the re-emergence of Confucian thought and their work is reviewed and differences in philosophies analysed

The continuation of CHI 101, this course provides the fundamentals of conversation, reading, writing, composition, and Chinese culture. The core course will be complemented with sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice.

This course is a continuation of CHI 201. It consolidates students’ knowledge of the cultural and fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese at a more sophisticated level in conversation, reading, writing and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Oral Chinese, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Magazines and Newspapers Reading, and News Listening Comprehension.

This course prepares students without previous knowledge of Chinese in the fundamentals of sound system, oral expression, reading, and writing. The aim is to conduct basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing and integrated skills training and to teach a certain knowledge of the language, with preliminary verbal communication skills. The core course will be complemented by sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice

This course prepares students without previous knowledge of Chinese in the fundamentals of sound system, oral expression, reading, and writing. The aim is to conduct basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing and integrated skills training and to teach a certain knowledge of the language, with preliminary verbal communication skills. The core course will be complemented by sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice.

This course is a continuation of Chinese beyond CHI 202. It consolidates students’ knowledge of the cultural and fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese at a more sophisticated level in conversation, reading, writing and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Oral Chinese, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Magazines and Newspapers Reading, and News Listening Comprehension.

This course consolidates students’ cultural and linguistic knowledge of the fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese in conversation, reading, writing, and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Listening and Speaking, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Writing, and Watching, Listening and Speaking.

This course consolidates students’ cultural and linguistic knowledge of the fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese in conversation, reading, writing, and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Listening and Speaking, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Writing, and Watching, Listening and Speaking.

The Learning through Internships Program is an educational experience that gives students the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace and social environment of the host culture, to expand professional skills and earn academic credit. The Focus Seminars and Regional Identities lectures and activities which make up an important part of the program are designed to provide theory and practice around societal themes which inform and enrich the internship experience.

This three credit course provides an insight into emerging trends in Chinese culture and society, against the background of centuries’ old cultural traditions. The course will explore the process of continuity and change in the People’s Republic of China, examining the complexity of social issues and the dynamics of cultural unity and diversity. The focus will be on the Reform Era after the passing of Chairman Mao in 1976, with consideration of how the Imperial and Nationalist legacies and the impact of the Maoist revolutions reflect in China today.

This course integrates the student’s Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing skills and expands the student’s vocabulary to improve the ability of analyzing words and using words. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course enables students to use Chinese skillfully, flexibly and accurately through listening, speaking, reading and writing and enhancement of integrated skills. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course enables students to understand and appreciate the rich linguistic phenomenon at higher levels through listening, speaking, reading and writing and similar kinds of integrated skills training. The core course will be complemented with Advanced Oral Chinese.

This course will trace the city’s transformation from its imperial past to the thriving urban metropolis and commercial centre it is today. Course themes will include: the representation of imperial power and its urban display; the modernization of the city and the legacy of the Olympics; the impact of migration on the city’s labor force and social dynamics. Students will gain insights into the ways in which globalization has affected the city and its inhabitants by analyzing the changing nature of Beijing’s relationship with the rest of the world, the place of Beijing and China in the global environment and the impact of trans-national organizations. The course also aims to help students contextualize their travels and encounters in the city, and to develop informed interpretations of their experience, as well as enhancing their understanding of Chinese history, culture and society with a specific focus on the city of Beijing.

This three credit course explores China’s role in foreign relations with major powers since the founding of the People’s Republic of China in 1949 with a particular emphasis on China-US relations and contemporary international relations in the East Asia Region. The course starts with an introduction to China’s international relations, and how international relations theory can explain China’s role in world affairs. The China-US relationship will be examined in terms of politics, economics and security. China’s historic and current roles in the East Asian region will be explored relating to changing economic power and domestic pressure, and political and security aspects. China’s growing role in international and regional economic and political groupings is reviewed alongside the question of China’s emergence as an international superpower.

This three credit course examines the history and social context of the main forms of visual art in China, and combines learning about aesthetics and techniques with an understanding of the wider socio-political connections. The course provides an overview of timelines, techniques, materials and geographical features of importance throughout the history of Chinese art and culture. It examines rituals governing life and death, the influence of religion and philosophy and the impact of Buddhism, the establishment of major artistic conventions, and the relevance of foreign trade and the rise of internationally important ceramic types.

This three credit course examines how China’ s economy has sustained rapid growth since 1978 when it embarked on economic reforms and opening up policies initiated by Mr. Deng Xiao‐ping As a result of its size, dynamic growth, and continuing reform policies, China has achieved the status of 2nd largest economy in the world. The course examines the transition from planned to predominantly market economy in many sectors, looking at reforms, opening up and the involvement of Foreign Direct Investment and Joint-Venture cooperation with Western multi-nationals.

This three credit course is designed to give students a comprehensive overview of Chinese Philosophy as well as Religion in China. Humanism, which characterises Chinese philosophy, is examined from its cosmological routes. Confucianism and Taoism are examined as the dominant thought in China’s philosophical tradition. Buddhism’s development emerges from foreign influences and its impact is discussed. The Neo-Confucian scholars ensured the re-emergence of Confucian thought and their work is reviewed and differences in philosophies analysed

The continuation of CHI 101, this course provides the fundamentals of conversation, reading, writing, composition, and Chinese culture. The core course will be complemented with sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice.

This course is a continuation of CHI 201. It consolidates students’ knowledge of the cultural and fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese at a more sophisticated level in conversation, reading, writing and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Oral Chinese, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Magazines and Newspapers Reading, and News Listening Comprehension.

This course prepares students without previous knowledge of Chinese in the fundamentals of sound system, oral expression, reading, and writing. The aim is to conduct basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing and integrated skills training and to teach a certain knowledge of the language, with preliminary verbal communication skills. The core course will be complemented by sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice

This course prepares students without previous knowledge of Chinese in the fundamentals of sound system, oral expression, reading, and writing. The aim is to conduct basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing and integrated skills training and to teach a certain knowledge of the language, with preliminary verbal communication skills. The core course will be complemented by sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice.

This course is a continuation of Chinese beyond CHI 202. It consolidates students’ knowledge of the cultural and fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese at a more sophisticated level in conversation, reading, writing and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Oral Chinese, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Magazines and Newspapers Reading, and News Listening Comprehension.

This course consolidates students’ cultural and linguistic knowledge of the fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese in conversation, reading, writing, and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Listening and Speaking, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Writing, and Watching, Listening and Speaking.

This course consolidates students’ cultural and linguistic knowledge of the fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese in conversation, reading, writing, and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Listening and Speaking, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Writing, and Watching, Listening and Speaking.

The Learning through Internships Program is an educational experience that gives students the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace and social environment of the host culture, to expand professional skills and earn academic credit. The Focus Seminars and Regional Identities lectures and activities which make up an important part of the program are designed to provide theory and practice around societal themes which inform and enrich the internship experience.

This three credit course provides an insight into emerging trends in Chinese culture and society, against the background of centuries’ old cultural traditions. The course will explore the process of continuity and change in the People’s Republic of China, examining the complexity of social issues and the dynamics of cultural unity and diversity. The focus will be on the Reform Era after the passing of Chairman Mao in 1976, with consideration of how the Imperial and Nationalist legacies and the impact of the Maoist revolutions reflect in China today.

This course will trace the city’s transformation from its imperial past to the thriving urban metropolis and commercial centre it is today. Course themes will include: the representation of imperial power and its urban display; the modernization of the city and the legacy of the Olympics; the impact of migration on the city’s labor force and social dynamics. Students will gain insights into the ways in which globalization has affected the city and its inhabitants by analyzing the changing nature of Beijing’s relationship with the rest of the world, the place of Beijing and China in the global environment and the impact of trans-national organizations. The course also aims to help students contextualize their travels and encounters in the city, and to develop informed interpretations of their experience, as well as enhancing their understanding of Chinese history, culture and society with a specific focus on the city of Beijing.

This three credit course examines how China’ s economy has sustained rapid growth since 1978 when it embarked on economic reforms and opening up policies initiated by Mr. Deng Xiao‐ping As a result of its size, dynamic growth, and continuing reform policies, China has achieved the status of 2nd largest economy in the world. The course examines the transition from planned to predominantly market economy in many sectors, looking at reforms, opening up and the involvement of Foreign Direct Investment and Joint-Venture cooperation with Western multi-nationals.

This course prepares students without previous knowledge of Chinese in the fundamentals of sound system, oral expression, reading, and writing. The aim is to conduct basic Chinese listening, speaking, reading, writing and integrated skills training and to teach a certain knowledge of the language, with preliminary verbal communication skills. The core course will be complemented by sections on Elementary Oral Chinese, Elementary Listening, and Language Practice

This course consolidates students’ cultural and linguistic knowledge of the fundamental grammatical structures of Chinese. It aims to increase students’ abilities to use Chinese in conversation, reading, writing, and understanding spoken Chinese. The core course will be complemented with sections on Intermediate Listening and Speaking, Intermediate Reading, Intermediate Writing, and Watching, Listening and Speaking.

The Learning through Internships Program is an educational experience that gives students the opportunity to apply classroom learning to the workplace and social environment of the host culture, to expand professional skills and earn academic credit. The Focus Seminars and Regional Identities lectures and activities which make up an important part of the program are designed to provide theory and practice around societal themes which inform and enrich the internship experience.

If your application is approved you will receive a welcome pack approximately 70 days prior to your departure from the United States. If you have any questions regarding your application please call the CAPA student services line at 1-800-793-0334. If the CAPA admissions team has any concerns regarding your application you will be contacted immediately upon receipt of your application.

The language courses are worth 9 credits each, the internship and LTI program in Beijing is worth 3 credits, and all contextual courses taught in English (e.g. Analyzing and Exploring the Global City: Beijing) are worth 3 credits. In summer, the language courses are worth 3 credits. You can earn 12-15 credits in Fall and Spring semesters, and 6-9 credits in the summer.

Before signing up for a specific course, you will need to check with your home institution to make sure they will approve the transfer credit provided for a specific course. If you are having difficulties getting a specific course approved, please call the CAPA student services line at 1-800-793-0334 and they will contact your university on your behalf. On your application you will be ask to list several course choices. On rare occasions there may be schedule or enrollment conflicts. If this occurs, you will be notified and asked to choose a course that was your second or third choice.

Your classes will be held at the CAPA Beijing Center at Capital Normal University. Please note you will not be enrolled with Chinese students and instead will be attending classes with students from various US universities and colleges.

As long as you have completed your internship application in full by the deadline of 85 days prior to departure, you should expect to receive your internship placement description fourteen days prior to your departure from the US. There can always be unforeseen delays with specific, specialized fields, so on rare occasions a placement may be delayed . In these cases CAPA will be in touch directly, providing detailed updates with regards to each specific situation. Please refer to the following link for more information regarding CAPA internships.

There are three important steps to successfully obtaining Transfer Credit through your home institution:

Obtain written pre-approval of your courses as well as for alternate courses. CAPA can provide you with the needed course descriptions and syllabi to help with the approval process prior to applying for the program.

Achieve good grades in your classes while studying abroad

Complete a State University of New York at Oswego transcript request form that CAPA will provide in your welcome pack once your application is received.

Your State University of New York Oswego transcript will be sent to your home institution approximately four weeks after your return to the United States.

Meet the Beijing Faculty

If you wish to get a copy of faculty bios for Beijing, please contact CAPA

Academic Management

Colin Speakman, Director of China Programs

Colin Speakman brings over 25 years of high-profile experience in International Education for American undergraduates, having served as Senior Vice President at the American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS) for 17 years and taught International Business and Finance at Richmond the American International University in London for 5 years. Colin has also undertaken education consultancy for blue-chip companies including Coca Cola Enterprises and Cadbury.

Since 2004 Colin has established new college programs in China in Beijing, Nanjing, and Shanghai and for the last 3 years has served as AIFS Director of China Programs in those locations as well as advising other organizations on special China programs and making regular contributions as a columnist to the China Daily newspaper.

Colin is responsible for all CAPA semester and summer programs in China, manages our operations and development in China, and acts as our liaison with US institutions considering establishing programs in China.

Colin has a BSc(Econ) from the London School of Economics, PGGE and Advanced PG diplomas in Higher Edvcation teaching and curriculum from the Institute of Education, University of London, a Masters in Education Management from the University of London, and post-graduate qualifications from the Chartered Institute of Marketing.

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

CAPA has an extensive network of internship sites available in Beijing. Students can intern whether they are fluent in Mandarin or just learning the language.

Internships are available in businesses of every kind, as well as nonprofit and nongovernmental organizations. Our local staff visits each CAPA internship site, many of which are frequent recipients of CAPA interns. Students are placed in sites within commuting distance of the center that best meet their individual interests, abilities and academic background. To learn about specific placements for your major, call a CAPA Student Admissions Counselor at 1-800-793-0334.

Starting an internship abroad with CAPA

Students participate in an interactive seminar to prepare them for their internship experience. Group orientation exercises are used to examine issues of culture and integration, and focused individual sessions examine site-specific information. All internships are contingent upon a successful interview with the internship-host organization, which will take place right after the student’s arrival and orientation. A seminar on interview techniques is presented prior to the interview.

Internship students participate in a seminar series entitled “Learning through Internships.” Faculty act as internship mentors to ensure that participants have academic guidance during their internships. Students produce papers, write reflective journals, and make oral presentations examining the real learning that occurs during their programs. Students produce a portfolio at the end of the internship that must meet clear academic criteria in order for the student to attain credit for the internship.

CAPA internships provide lasting results

Students are monitored throughout their internships to ensure that they are receiving appropriate training and guidance. At the end of each session, students evaluate their experience. These evaluations are shared with their home campus.

MyEducation offers intentionally defined pathways through the city: means of engaging with the urban environment in ways that are relevant to your studies and interests. The intention is to empower you to make specific connections between classroom theory and the outside world.

CAPA developed our MyEducation program to help you select cultural experiences that are relevant to your academic courses and personal learning goals abroad. Events, activities, and reflective sessions are identified and designed around significant themes such as Community and People, Government and Power, Landscape and Time, Diversity and Identity, and Arts and Culture. Participation in these activities will give you an intelligent, well-rounded, and in-depth perspective on the global city where you are studying.

You will have the opportunity to choose from a range of activities with varying styles of presentation. This allows you to pick a session that speaks to you and your way of learning.

Some examples of MyEducation sessions offered in Beijing:

Historical tour of the Great Wall of China

Visit to the museum of the Chinese revolution

Workshops on Chinese cooking, calligraphy, and Tai chi chuan

Educational visit to the Confucius Temple

Guest lecture on Chinese dynastical history

The CAPA Beijing Program also includes a multi-day MyEducation excursion to Shanghai. This visit, included in the program fee, includes high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, accommodation in the Puxi district in shared twin accommodation, all breakfasts and some group meals, a CAPA escort, cultural and educational visits in Puxi and Pudong, and flight back to Beijing. This visit is an excellent way to explore a second Global City in China, with plenty of opportunities to learn about and reflect on the impact Shanghai has on the rest of China.

This style of learning is a unique and valuable opportunity to make the most out of your time studying in another country.

How does it work?

When students arrive in Beijing, they are presented with a MyEducation planner. The MyEducation calendar is designed for you by local staff and faculty as a way of helping you get the most out of your time in your study abroad destination. MyEducation brings theory to life and offers a unique and valuable opportunity to make the most out of your time studying in another country.

MyEducation activities are either staff-led or self-directed. Every week, one item will be selected as the MyEducation Event of the Week, and further information will be given on this highlighted event in hand-outs and in a weekly email, delivered directly to your inbox!

Some CAPA professors integrate MyEducation activities into their courses and assessment, so that you may have an opportunity to reflect upon, write about, and present your experiences. MyEducation is also an excellent mechanism to develop areas of interest that may be extended into an application for the CAPA Record of Achievement.

What do students say about MyEducation?

“With the CAPA MyEducation weekly visits I was able to visit so many sites. We were constantly on the go. . . . It is something anyone would have to experience in person to believe.”-Sachelle Taylor, Chatham University, Beijing Summer 2011

With CAPA you will learn about real people and real issues in the location where you live, work, and study.

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

*Plus $150 housing deposit. Program dates are subject to change according to the academic calendar of Capital Normal University. Homestays carry an additional supplement fee of $1,500 for the semester.

CAPA delivers academic excellence along with a complete cultural experience at an affordable price. The following is included in the program fee for the CAPA Beijing Program:

TuitionSemester programs earn 12 to 15 credits (maximum of 3 credits for an internship). During the summer you can earn 6 to 9 credits (3 credits for language, 3 credits for a contextual course taught in English, and 3 credits for an internship). Credit comes from the State University of New York at Oswego, our School of Record in Beijing.

Internship PlacementOptional 3 credit-hour internships are available for all students in any major field of study at no additional cost. The internships can be in Mandarin Chinese or in English.

Housing and MealsStudents live at the international student residence at Capital Normal University, or if they are studying at the intermediate Mandarin level or above, they can also live in a homestay with a Chinese family.

CNU Housing: Each room has an en-suite bathroom and Internet access. The residence has a bookstore, business center, cafe, laundry, fitness center, dining hall, restaurants, and a convenience store. Students may store food in a small refrigerator in each bedroom and if they wish cook in the separate kitchens at the end of each floor. In the streets bordering on the campus students will find many inexpensive local Chinese restaurants.

Homestays: Students studying at the intermediate Mandarin level or above can choose to live in a homestay with a Chinese family. Homestays are a fantastic way to engage culturally with Chinese people and improve language skills. Homestays are located in residential areas, within commuting distance of CNU using the included transit card. Students will have their own room, access to laundry, and breakfast and dinner is provided by the hosts. There is no additional meal stipend. Homestays carry an additional supplement fee of $500 for the summer and $1,500 for the semester.

Local TransportationEach student will receive a pre-loaded local transportation card that provides access to the Beijing metro and buses.

ExcursionsFull-day excursion to the Summer Palace and the Great Wall of China.

A study visit to Shanghai to include high-speed train from Beijing to Shanghai, accommodation in the Puxi district in shared twin accommodation, all breakfasts and some group meals, a CAPA escort, cultural and educational visits in Puxi and Pudong, and flight back to Beijing. This excursion is four days, three nights and is only offered during the fall and spring semesters.

MyEducation BeijingMyEducation is CAPA’s unique learning immersion program, which blends local culture and top-notch academics into the experience of a lifetime for our students. A proven education program that combines theme based learning with unique cultural experiences turning Beijing into your classroom.

CAPA Services and SupportThe CAPA Beijing team is available throughout your program to assist and support you. Students can also contact the 24 hour emergency cell phone for any urgent situations outside of office hours.

You will need to send in a $300.00 deposit along with your initial CAPA application. Your final payment will be due 70 days prior to the start of the CAPA Beijing Program. If you have any questions regarding the payment schedule please contact the CAPA student services line at 1-800-793-0334.

CAPA tries to provide an all inclusive program fee that will help cover most of your overseas costs; however there are a few items you will need to budget for in advance. Airfare: Please call STA Travel at 1-800-224-0371 for a quote on the airfare cost to China for specific program dates.CAPA Sponsored Trips: Every semester CAPA Beijing organizes excursions that you can sign up for once you are in country. These trips range from $10 to $200 depending on the destination, inclusions, and length of the excursion.My Education Cultural Activities: Throughout the program CAPA will organize an array of cultural activities to help enhance your overall experience of living in a new culture. You will receive a detailed MyEducation calendar at the beginning of the program. Most of these activities will be free however some have nominal costs listed on the calendar by each activity.Spending Money: Please refer to the study abroad budget sheet to obtain the approximate cost of goods in China. Check out www.xe.com for the most up-to-date conversion between US Dollars ($) and Chinese Renminbi (RMB).

CAPA offers scholarships on our semester, quarter, and summer programs to students demonstrating either high academic achievement or financial need. Please refer to this link for information on criteria and how to apply.

For Fall and Spring semester programs your federal financial aid can be used to help cover the costs of the CAPA Beijing Program, however you will need to meet with your financial aid officer at your home institution as soon as possible to make sure you have taken all of the required steps to obtain your aid. Some aid may be available for summer programs; however, again it is important to check with your home institution financial aid advisor to see if you qualify. Financial Aid students participating in the CAPA Beijing Program will follow a different payment schedule than non-financial aid students. Please refer to the following link for more specific Q & A’s on financial aid.

Whether you have questions or are ready to start an application, the CAPA Admissions Team is ready to help!

Submit your inquiry online or give us a call at 1-800-793-0334. One of CAPA's Admissions Advisors can help answer any questions you have on our programs, explain the application process, and help you start preparing for an exciting study abroad experience.

Once you start an application, your designated Admissions Advisor will work with you throughout this process by tracking your application and ensuring you meet all deadlines.

CAPA’s online enrollment is easy-to-use and available to students applying directly through CAPA. However, if your home institution has a customized CAPA program, please enroll through your study abroad office.

Once CAPA has received your full application, you will hear about your acceptance within 48 hours

If you are accepted, you will receive instructions about how to secure your space on the program

If you intend to do an internship abroad, check out these resources on writing a resume (CV) and cover letter or visit your school's Career Services Office.

The CAPA Admissions Team will walk you through how to personalize your CAPA program starting from the initial stages of filling out your application, advise you on how to apply for scholarships to help fund your experience, and provide information to help you budget for your program fees and personal expenses while abroad. CAPA is here to help every step of the way!

Colin SpeakmanDirector of China ProgramsAs Director of Academic Programs, I plan and manage the logistical and operational components of the CAPA Beijing Program, including overseeing internship placements and serving as the primary point of contact for student enquires and concerns. I am originally from the United Kingdom. I began my career in international education as faculty at a university in London. I continued in the field of international education for 20 years in London before moving to California for 3 years. I moved to China in 2004. I studied at the London School of Economics and London University Institute of Education finishing with an MA and professional teaching qualifications. I have taught about the Chinese Economy and Doing Business in China for many years and I have written about China and the West for China Daily since 2008. I love helping students understand China better as it is such a dynamic and important country for the future.

Yingle Wei (Doris)Student Services CoordinatorI have worked for CAPA since the first group of students arrived, and I still remember very clearly how exciting it was to receive the thank you cards from them at the farewell dinner. As student services coordinator, I help lead CAPA events and activities and provide after-hours support. I was born in central China and moved to Beijing with my family when I was very young. I completed a Bachelor's Degree in History (majoring in Beijing History) and have a minor in Music from Capital Normal University. Now I am doing my graduate degree in history education at CNU. I did an exchange program to Pennsylvania when I was a junior for half a year and had a chance to experience a very different culture from my own. For that reason I want to make students feel comfortable in Beijing. I love this city, and I find Beijing a fascinating place. I am eager to explore even more of the capital. I am hoping CAPA students will love the city, too!

Han Fei FeiStudent Services Assistant I joined CAPA in 2012, and I help lead CAPA events and activities and assist with after-hours coverage. I was born in Dalian, a port city in Eastern China and moved to Beijing to study in the university. This is the dream of many Chinese students from the provinces. This also helps me understand the challenges foreign students face in a city of 20 million people. I undertook a double major in English and Hospitality Studies at Beijing Foreign Studies University, close to Capital Normal University. I love Beijing as it is such an international and global city, and I really enjoy meeting and mixing with foreigners and becoming friends with the CAPA students.

Our enrollment system is easy to use, safe, and secure. If you have questions, please contact an Admissions Advisor at 800-793-0334.

“Going to China was one of the best decisions in my life, especially deciding to go with CAPA. Even if I had gone there for a year without going through CAPA, I don't think I would have enjoyed it as much. With the CAPA MyEducation weekly visits I was able to visit so many sites. We were constantly on the go and I obtained so much from the classes, site seeing, internship, along with the help of Colin Speakman, our CAPA director. It is something anyone would have to experience in person to believe.”

Sachelle Taylor, Chatham University Beijing Student, Summer 2011

"My experience studying abroad with CAPA's internship in Beijing program was beneficial to me in ways I cannot even name. CAPA's personnel provided me with the preparation that I needed to succeed in a foreign land. The internship available to me was not only challenging, but also fun. Working in Beijing for the summer exposed me to insights on international business I wouldn't have been able to obtain elsewhere."

Nhat Duong, University of Pittsburgh Beijing Student, Summer 2010

“Studying abroad in China was a life changing experience. I almost did not go because I was afraid. I did not know any of the language and I was the only student from my school going. I am glad I went. It really opened my eyes to this vast world that we live in!”

Dan'Elle Bellamy, University of Central Florida, Summer 2012

“Beijing was one of the most different yet interesting and informative places I could travel. CAPA made my experience in the historic city that much more educational. With the help of the CAPA representatives, I was able to truly see and experience all the high points of Beijing.”

Layne Wineland, University of Mississippi, Summer 2012

“The CAPA Program incorporated the classroom experience with actual site visits and personal testimonies from local citizens. This invaluable experience has set the pavement to a better understanding of international business and relations. This experience has helped me to become a better individual by accepting and acknowledging the beauty of differences.”